What materials are used for vinyl and PVC tarps and what is the difference?
Oct 17, 2022
First, PVC tarps are made using high-density cross-woven polyethylene coated with polyethylene laminates and sheets. The center of these tarps is loosely woven from strips of polyethylene plastic with flakes glued to the surface. These sheets can be high density polyethylene or low density polyethylene (LDPE). Additionally, they are treated with ultraviolet (UV) light for a long service life.
PVC waterproof cloths are coated with UV coating material to protect them from sunlight. The UV coating protects the material from abrasion as the sun degrades the polyester and forms cracks in it.
Vinyl tarps, on the other hand, are made from high-strength polyethylene terephthalate (PET) scrim and reinforced PVC laminate. Laminated coatings make vinyl tarps strong and highly resistant to damaging elements. Liners are usually flame retardant. The best vinyl tarps on the market are made from NFPA-701 compliant flame retardant materials.
The only difference is the materials used to make the two products. However, vinyl tarps are known to be stronger than PVC tarps. Vinyl is too strong, abrasion resistant, and more resistant to abrasion. Generally speaking, coated vinyl tarps offer the best abrasion resistance, which is why they are often used on road semi-trailers that have a lot of wear and tear on the frame.
